Japan starts 4K HD broadcasting trial service

TOKYO, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Japan on Monday started its first 4K ultra high-definition broadcasting trail TV service, according to local report.

The Channel 4K, operated by Next Generation Television and Broadcasting Promotion Forum, or NexTV-F, will air contents provided by member TV stations, covering live music, travel and sports programs, for roughly six hours a day during the preliminary period, the report quoted the operator as saying.

Viewers need a 4K television, tuner and antenna, and will need to send an application to the operator to watch the channel, according to Japan's Kyodo News.

NexTV-F, set up in May 2013 to promote 4K broadcasting, has 62 corporate members consisting mainly of TV stations, electronics makers, ad agencies and trading houses.

The Japanese government is aiming to begin the commercial service for 4K broadcasting in 2016, said the report.